STRASBOURG, 1 October 2025 – H.E. Myriam Spiteri Debono addressed the Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe reflecting on Europe’s progress in strengthening rights and institutions, while warning against the fragility of the values that sustain them. 

In her address, President Spiteri Debono drew attention to the troubling rise of hate speech and misogynistic narratives. Once confined to the margins, she noted, these toxic ideologies are now gaining ground both online and offline: “Digital technologies, once seen as tools for liberation and democratic participation, are now too often used to deepen division, spread misinformation and disinformation, and silence dissent.” She underscored that we must never meet such behaviour with silence but instead expose and confront it with determination.

Addressing the persistent rise in gender-based violence, Her Excellency stressed that this trend cannot be normalised. Women who dare to lead or speak out continue to face intimidation, harm, and exclusion. She stressed that progress is not permanent. “Hard-won gains must be defended, renewed and advanced with each generation,” she declared, urging member states to remain vigilant in safeguarding equality, dignity, and justice.

Her Excellency also reiterated Malta’s principled support for Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity and drew attention to the dire humanitarian situation in Gaza. She explained that Malta’s recent recognition of the State of Palestine reaffirmed the country’s resolute commitment to justice, human dignity, and the pursuit of peace.

As the Council of Europe marks the 75th anniversary of the European Convention on Human Rights, the President urged member states to defend democracy, strengthen social cohesion, and uphold human rights in the face of today’s profound challenges. She concluded: “We must live democracy and sustain it through justice, equality, and civic engagement. We must carry forward the spirit of the European Convention on Human Rights into the challenges of today and tomorrow.”

Throughout the visit, the President had a number of other engagements, including bilateral meetings with the Secretary General of the Council of Europe, Mr Alain Berset, and the President of the Parliamentary Assembly, Mr Theodoros Roussopooulos, as well as an address to the Women@PACE group.